As 2025 began, the wrestling community and the loved ones of Josh Taylor faced an unimaginable tragedy.
At just 20 years old, Taylor’s life was tragically cut short in a fatal car accident that left his family, friends, and teammates in deep mourning.
Key Takeaways
- Josh Taylor, a 20-year-old wrestler from Lakewood High School and Otterbein University, tragically passed away in a car accident at the start of 2025.
- Known for his kindness, passion, and camaraderie, his teammates and coaches deeply cherished Josh and the broader wrestling community, who have expressed heartfelt condolences.
- Josh’s parents, Melissa and Andy Taylor have requested privacy during this difficult time while wrestling organizations and friends honor his memory and extend their support to the family.
Josh Taylor, a standout wrestler for both Lakewood High School and Otterbein University, was more than just an athlete.
He was a passionate and beloved member of the wrestling community, admired for his talent and character alike.
Born in 2005, Josh had already made a lasting impact on those around him in his short life.
His parents, Melissa and Andy Taylor have requested privacy as they navigate this heartbreaking time.
Understandably, they have not spoken publicly about their loss.
The news of Josh’s passing was shared by his former coach, Patches Atwood, who expressed profound grief and admiration for Josh on Facebook.
In his heartfelt post, Coach Atwood wrote:
A phone call no coach ever wants to receive. Today we lost former Lakewood wrestling family member Josh Taylor to a fatal car accident. While talking about Josh today to several people, the word “great” kept coming up. None of which was talking about his wrestling abilities. Though I’ve known Josh since he was in elementary school, and the word “great” is a perfect way to describe him. It’s hard to put into words what Josh meant to his teammates, the coaches, the Lakewood wrestling program, his friends, and his family. I can say for certain that this world is a lesser place without him here. Josh will be missed by many. Please keep the Taylor family in your thoughts and prayers. Family on 3..
Via Facebook
1..2..3..
💔
R.I.P. Josh Taylor
2005-2025
Accompanying the post were photos of Josh in his element—on the wrestling mat, celebrating victories and sharing moments of camaraderie with his teammates.
Josh’s ever-present smile and undeniable charm stood out in every image.
The grief extended beyond his immediate circle to the larger wrestling community.
Otterbein University Wrestling released a statement mourning their sophomore team member, emphasizing the profound impact Josh had on everyone who knew him:
This is a post no coach ever wants to make. In a heartbreaking start to 2025, we have lost sophomore wrestling Fam1ly member Josh Taylor to a fatal car accident today. Please keep his parents, Melissa and Andy, and Josh’s siblings in your thoughts during this very difficult time.
Via Facebook
We will post funeral arrangements once they are made available. Hug your loved ones tonight.
Similarly, Centerburg Trojan Wrestling expressed their sorrow, posting:
Our heartfelt condolences to the family of Josh Taylor, Lakewood, and Otterbein wrestling on the tragic and unexpected loss of Josh today. Make sure to hug your loved ones.
Via Facebook
The wrestling community rallied around the Taylor family, offering support and extending condolences.
Despite his short life, Josh left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him, embodying kindness, passion, and camaraderie.
In this time of grief, we offer our deepest sympathies to Melissa, Andy, and the entire Taylor family.
May they find strength and solace in the love surrounding them, and may Josh Taylor’s soul rest in eternal peace.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Josh Taylor had been a wrestling black belt.
- He was not active on social media.
- Taylor’s brother’s name is Robby Taylor. He has not yet posted an update about Josh’s demise.
